Poland is making a significant bid to attract leading international scientists and researchers through a new, high-profile initiative. The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) has officially launched the TOP200 NAWA programme, a competitive fellowship designed to draw outstanding research talent to Polish universities and institutes.
A Strategic Push for Scientific Excellence
The core objective of the programme is clear: to strengthen Poland's innovation ecosystem by recruiting researchers affiliated with the world's elite academic institutions. The initiative specifically targets scholars from universities ranked within the top 200 globally, as recognized by major ranking systems like the Shanghai Ranking, QS World University Rankings, and Times Higher Education (THE).
By creating attractive, stable positions, Poland aims to elevate its profile as a serious destination for high-caliber research and foster deeper transnational scientific cooperation. The programme is named in honour of Professor Rudolf Weigl, a pioneering Polish biologist and physician who invented the first effective typhus vaccine and was a multiple Nobel Prize nominee.
Programme Structure and Substantial Support
The TOP200 NAWA programme is structured to offer comprehensive support to successful candidates, known as Fellows. It is open to researchers across all fields of science and offers two distinct participation tracks:
- Junior Fellow: For early-career researchers who have obtained their doctorate within the last seven years prior to the application deadline.
- Senior Fellow: For established researchers with a proven track record of leading research teams.
Selected Fellows will benefit from a robust support package. Host institutions in Poland are required to provide a full-time employment contract for a period of 2 to 4 years. Furthermore, they must ensure access to necessary research infrastructure, offer administrative support, and assist with the Fellow's adaptation and integration. A key advantage is the opportunity for Fellows to establish and lead their own research teams.
Funding, Timeline, and How to Apply
The call for applications is now open, with a total programme budget of 17 million Polish Zloty (PLN) provided by NAWA. Researchers interested in the opportunity must submit their applications by February 27, 2026.
To help potential applicants find a suitable academic supervisor or host institution in Poland, NAWA recommends using the dedicated platform www.researchinpoland.org. This resource is designed to facilitate connections between international researchers and the Polish academic community.
Beyond individual career development, the programme is designed to have a multiplier effect. It seeks to accelerate the growth of Poland's research ecosystem, build viable links between science and industry, and expand international networks for both the Fellows and the host institutions. The initiative represents a strategic investment in making scientific careers in Poland more attractive and competitive on the world stage.
For full details, eligibility criteria, and application guidelines, prospective applicants are directed to the official programme page at: https://nawa.gov.pl/en/scientists/top200-nawa.
